May 17 – United Way of Midland to present a report on the most current Midland County data provided by Don Baylor of the Center for Public Policy Priorities (CPPP) based in Austin, TX. This data, combined with local wisdom, will be the basis for the United Way of Midland’s 2012 Needs Assessment.

The purpose of the data is to gain a better understanding of current needs and begin a dialogue to develop a plan to address those needs. United Way intends to use the assessment as a tool to identify both community gaps in service and barriers to unmet needs in order to determine community priority issues.

The data was researched and collected by the CPPP. The research team surveyed a wealth of existing data sources available, as well as studies and reports that have been completed by various groups that address education, self-sufficiency and health. Mr. Baylor also conducted focus group sessions throughout the community. This process enabled the CPPP to incorporate into their findings and recommendations the experiences and insights of health and human service providers as well as those seeking services.

United Way of Midland is working to advance the common good by focusing on education, self-sufficiency and health. These are the building blocks for a good life – a quality education that leads to a stable job, enough income to support a family through retirement, and good health.

Our goal is to create long-lasting changes that prevent problems from happening in the first place.

We invite you to be a part of the change. Together, united, we can inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow.